The Ocean Voyage on the City of Rome - 1894

The Anchor Line Steamer SS City of Rome, Outward Bound from New York. American Illustrated Magazine, June 1894. GGA Image ID # 1da82c2c3e

Introduction

"The Ocean Voyage," an article from the Anchor Line published in 1894, provides a vivid portrayal of the transatlantic journey during the late 19th century. It captures the essence of ocean travel, offering a glimpse into the experiences, expectations, and routines of passengers voyaging from Europe to America aboard the great steamships of the era. The article reflects the contemporary fascination with sea travel, marked by both excitement and uncertainty, as ocean liners represented the primary means of international transportation for millions of people seeking new opportunities, adventures, or simply a change of scenery. Written during a time of rapid technological advancements in shipbuilding and navigation, the article also highlights the various amenities provided on board and the evolving nature of maritime travel.

Start well on your trip to Europe. Select carefully the steamer that will carry you across the water. Do not let an uncomfortable voyage spoil your whole outing. Remember that the time spent on the ocean may be the most enjoyable or unpleasant of the trip, depending on the vessel you take.

You will be sure to have a pleasant voyage, for few things conduce to the comfort and enjoyment of a traveler more than the knowledge that those in whose care he is temporarily committed are gentlemen.

Sail under the colors of a line that has established a reputation for courteous officers and servants. The Anchor Line has earned such a good reputation. Everyone who has sailed on the vessels of this famous line has a word of praise for the treatment received while aboard.

Mrs. Frank Leslie, whose considerable experience in ocean traveling qualifies her to speak authoritatively, states that she has never met with more courteous and gentlemanly officers and servants than those on the Anchor Line steamers.

The Anchor Line operates a fleet of forty magnificent vessels between New York and Liverpool, Bristol, Glasgow, the Mediterranean ports, and India; from Glasgow to New York, Bombay, Calcutta, to the Mediterranean ports; from India to the Mediterranean ports, to London, to Liverpool, and New York. The value of these steamers exceeds $15,000,000.

The latest addition to the Anchor Line fleet is the City of Rome, which runs regularly between New York and Glasgow. It is a handsome steamship registered at 8,410 tons. Regarding speed, comfort, safety, and general equipment, there are none better among the "ocean greyhounds."

A writer in one of the leading Western daily papers says, "he has crossed on the Cunard. French and Inman Lines, but he was never on a boat that pleased him better than the City of Rome.

Passengers on the Anchor Line steamships are furnished with A liberal table, including all the season's delicacies. The dining saloon, music hall, ladies' boudoir, library, and gentlemen's smoking room are all located on the main and spar decks, near the center of the ship, and utilizing electric bells is in communication with the steward's department.

All are fitted out in the most elegant and luxurious style, with every regard to passengers' comfort and convenience. The staterooms are also located on the main and spar decks. They are large, well-lighted, perfectly ventilated, and elegantly furnished.

Each steamer carries a duly qualified surgeon and experienced stewardesses and is provided with a piano, organ, and select library, including the latest guidebooks of European travel.

One does not need to hesitate about the line he will take when crossing the ocean. One thinks of the many advantages of the Anchor Line—the moderate rates, the comfortable vessels, and the splendid accommodations: the excellent table and the courteous treatment. The lack of space prevents us from mentioning hundreds of other advantages here.

At Henderson Brothers' Bowling Green in New York City, one may obtain sailing dates, descriptive circulars, and passenger and freight rates.

Key Points

1. The Routine of Ocean Travel:

   • The article details the daily routines of passengers during an ocean voyage, emphasizing the regularity of activities that help passengers adjust to life at sea. It discusses mealtime schedules, social gatherings, deck activities, and the practice of "steamer etiquette" that passengers are expected to follow.

2. Scenery and Experiences at Sea:

   • The article paints a picture of the visual and sensory experiences that come with ocean travel, from the vastness of the sea and sky to the changes in weather and the sighting of other ships. It captures the sense of wonder and isolation felt by passengers, providing a window into the emotional and psychological aspects of a long voyage.

3. Comfort and Amenities on Board:

   • A significant focus of the article is on the comforts provided to passengers aboard the steamships. This includes descriptions of the dining experience, cabins, lounges, and leisure activities available to first, second, and third-class passengers. The article underscores the luxurious nature of first-class accommodations compared to the more modest conditions of lower classes.

4. Challenges of Ocean Travel:

   • While the article promotes the safety and efficiency of ocean voyages, it does not shy away from mentioning the occasional challenges passengers might face, such as seasickness, boredom, and the unpredictable nature of the sea. It touches on the measures taken by ship personnel to ensure passenger safety and comfort, especially in adverse conditions.

5. Social Dynamics and Interactions:

   • The article reflects on the diverse social dynamics aboard the ship, where people from various backgrounds and social classes interact. It discusses how these interactions could range from friendly exchanges and newfound friendships to class-conscious distinctions that were prevalent at the time.

6. Advancements in Maritime Travel:

   • The article highlights the technological advancements of the era that made ocean travel more efficient and comfortable. It mentions the power of steam engines, improvements in navigation, and the reliability of ships like those of the Anchor Line, which had earned a reputation for their safety and service.

7. The Significance of the Transatlantic Journey:

   • Beyond the voyage itself, the article captures the broader significance of transatlantic travel during this period, serving as a metaphor for the hope and ambition driving the waves of migration from Europe to America. It reflects on how these journeys were more than just a physical passage; they were a transformative experience for many seeking new lives.

Summary

"The Ocean Voyage" from the Anchor Line is an evocative account of transatlantic travel in the late 19th century. The article provides a comprehensive overview of life aboard an ocean liner, from daily routines and social interactions to the challenges and pleasures unique to sea voyages. It emphasizes the technological advancements that made ocean travel more accessible and reliable, while also highlighting the diverse experiences of passengers across different classes. The descriptions of the vast sea, the changing skies, and the routine of ship life convey the blend of excitement, monotony, and reflection that characterized these long journeys. Moreover, the article touches on the broader cultural and social dynamics at play, as people from different backgrounds found themselves navigating not just the ocean but also the complex social landscapes aboard the ships. Ultimately, "The Ocean Voyage" is a snapshot of a transformative era in maritime history, capturing the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of opportunity, and the allure of the unknown that defined the transatlantic journey for so many.

Conclusion

"The Ocean Voyage" is more than a historical account of transatlantic travel in the 1890s; it is a narrative that captures the essence of a bygone era of maritime exploration and migration. The article provides valuable insights into the daily life aboard a steamship, the technological progress that made such voyages possible, and the social dynamics that defined the experiences of passengers from various walks of life. It illustrates the significance of the ocean voyage as a metaphor for change, hope, and discovery, while also recognizing the inherent challenges and uncertainties of sea travel. In doing so, it serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience of those who embarked on these long journeys, forever altering the course of history by crossing the vast Atlantic in search of new beginnings. The Anchor Line's portrayal of "The Ocean Voyage" stands as a testament to the transformative power of travel and the enduring spirit of human adventure.